Wednesday, 4 January 2017

When Dreams Take Flight

I had a creatively delightful start to 2017. I received an
incredible box of Artistcellar inspiration. Included were the new
Chakras 2 Series stencils. They were impeccably timed.

As with many people I know, I am still trying to make sense of
the events of 2016 and see a positive way forward for 2017. I believe
this is the reason I was instantly drawn to stunning Sanskrit Om
stencil.

If you have ever taken yoga class or tried to find out more
about spirituality, I am sure you have heard the sound “Om”. I have
read that many believe the resonant tone of Om is the vibration
of creation. It is considered the first sound to come from silence.

The symbol of Om visually resembles the essence of Ganesha, the Hindu
elephant god, with serpentine curves mimicking his body and trunk.
Ganesha is the Lord of good fortune and auspicious beginnings. But most
importantly, he is considered the remover of spiritual and material
obstacles. For me, Ganesha has always been a favourite deity. His story
of perseverance and faith encouraged me to embrace the power to redefine
the course of my life on many occasions.

Om is also a “seed” mantra and is related to the Third Eye the Sixth
chakra. Exploring this chakra, your energy to "see" clearly is
heightened. Looking at the stencil, you can't help but notice petals in
the shape of wings as part of the design. The Third Eye renews our
ability to view the world and ourselves with hope for the possibilities
of life...allowing our spirit to soar.

And most importantly, your Third Eye is the window to experiencing
the feelings of others from their perspective…to revive our ability to
empathize with those we meet.

I couldn’t wait to start my next collage. I’ve had my eye on a
beautiful piece of marbleized rice paper. It was waiting for the right
project. And I knew this was it! I lightly traced the Om and Third Eye stencils on to a page of my new
Strathmore Watercolour Visual Journal and completed them using the
Twinkling H20s paints and my ever handy Koi Water Brush. The finished
effect was just as I had hoped…shimmering, rich colour in peaceful hues
of indigo and violet.

I wanted to add straight edged elements to compliment the organic Om
and Third Eye designs. I applied the same technique to a series of
diamond shapes I had cut into Mylar sometime back. I decided to add the
Traditional Japanese Ocean Waves stencil as well, taking it from my
library of images safely kept in my Strathmore Mixed Media Visual
Journal. Once everything was dry it was time to scan and build my
collage.
I relaxed into working with the elements, allowing the serene sensation
of mindfulness to wash over me. The collage came together quickly…almost
as if each image knew where they would look best. The wings of the
Third Eye allowed me to just go with it…to trust and create from a place
of tranquility.

And there it was, my collage inspired by a series of synchronistic
events: the release of the Artistcellar Chakra 2 Series and the arrival
of the stencils and supplies at the time I needed them most. Perhaps
2017 will be a year of new beginnings… with Ganesha clearing the way,
allowing our dreams to take flight.

About Me

Artists, dancers, writers, and poets search for a Muse for guidance, inspiration, passion, and the spark of creativity.

As a member of Sisterhood of the Muse, my Blog is home to the work of artists, and like-minded souls, who hear her voice and allow the fascination to begin.

As a visual artist and dancer, I enjoy exploring the
seduction of spirit and following the journey wherever it may take me. Utilizing a variety of techniques, my work is a
convergence of the traditional with the digital...in both the visual and performing arts.

Above all, I am a great believer in Synchronicity and love the idea that it can lead to the most profound aha moments we can experience in life and in Art.

My desire is to share what inspires me, entertain those who choose to visit, and perhaps spark the sense of wonder and creativity that dwells in us all.